As the center of a thriving region of more than 900,000 people, West Michigan combines the characteristics of a big city with the charm of a small town. A snapshot of the area's many fine attributes includes: a growing, diversified economic base; four beautiful seasons filled with just about any recreational activity imaginable; award-winning public and private schools and colleges; country, lakeside, urban, suburban and historical housing within minutes of downtown; museums, Broadway performances, operas, a symphony and ballet; close proximity to the state's more than 35,000 lakes; professional baseball, basketball, hockey and football; top 10 national ranking for affordable housing; plus much more.